Calculate Friction Coefficient with Homework Statement

In summary, two blocks are connected by a massless string and start from rest. When the 1.81 kg mass falls 0.336 m, it has a speed of 1.25 m/s. The acceleration of gravity is 9.8 m/s2. The question asks for the frictional force between the 3.13 kg mass and the table, which can be calculated using equations involving the tension and acceleration of the falling mass. The correct answer is 0.1376 N.
  • #1
blayman5
43
0

Homework Statement


Two blocks are arranged at the ends of a mass-
less string as shown in the figure. The system
starts from rest. When the 1.81 kg mass has
fallen through 0.336 m, its downward speed is
1.25 m/s.
The acceleration of gravity is 9.8 m/s2 .
at is the frictional force between the
3.13 kg mass and the table? Answer in units
of N.

The Attempt at a Solution


m(table) T-friction=m(table)a
m(fallen) T-m(fallen)g=m(fallen)a

T=m(fallen)a-m(fallen)g
T=9.3215

T-friction=m(table)a
-(coeff)N=m(table)a-T
(coeff)N=T-m(table)a
coeff=t-m(table)a
-----------
m(table)g
=.1706

Did I go about this correctly?
 
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  • #2
Your answer is slightly off. I'd check your equation for the falling mass and work out you acceleration and tension again.
 
  • #3
i redid it and got .1376.
 

1. What is the definition of friction coefficient?

The friction coefficient is a dimensionless quantity that represents the ratio of the force of friction between two surfaces in contact to the normal force pushing the surfaces together.

2. How is friction coefficient calculated?

The friction coefficient can be calculated by dividing the force of friction by the normal force. This can be represented by the equation: μ = F/N, where μ is the friction coefficient, F is the force of friction, and N is the normal force.

3. What factors affect the value of friction coefficient?

The value of friction coefficient can be affected by several factors, including the nature of the surfaces in contact, the roughness of the surfaces, the amount of force pushing the surfaces together, and the presence of any lubricants or other substances between the surfaces.

4. How does friction coefficient impact the motion of objects?

The friction coefficient determines the amount of resistance between two surfaces in contact, which can affect the motion of objects. A higher friction coefficient means more resistance, which can slow down or prevent motion. On the other hand, a lower friction coefficient allows for smoother and easier motion.

5. How is friction coefficient used in real-life applications?

The concept of friction coefficient is used in various real-life applications, such as designing tires for vehicles, selecting materials for brake pads, and determining the amount of force needed to move objects on different surfaces. It is also an important factor in understanding the frictional forces involved in everyday activities, such as walking or sliding objects on a table.

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